(Gumweed; Rosinweed)
Native to North America but underutilized by gardeners, gumplant is a short-lived perennial with large, toothed leaves and daisy-like yellow flowers on leafy stalks. Tolerant of poor soil and dry conditions, it prefers full sun and is appropriate for meadow gardens. Gumplant produces a resin that protects the flower heads while they are in bud. The resin can be chewed like gum. Gumplant was a traditional Native American remedy, efficacious for colds, coughs, nasal congestion and bronchial irritations. Also used as a healing wash for burns, rashes, blisters and poison ivy. It was listed as an official drug in the US in the late 1860s when its effectiveness against poison ivy was recognized. Harvest plants while they are in full bloom and dry to use in tinctures and infusions, or use fresh in poultices. The unassuming yellow flowers hide a long history of medicinal value to herbalists.